The Senate on this Tuesday passed without delay to a measure that will mandate the disclosure of official records concerning the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by the president and his GOP allies. The administration relented after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.
Expedited Passage in Both Chambers
Senators proceeded by consensus, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Earlier that day, the House passed by a huge margin the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have waited long enough. Those affected have suffered long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader stated in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to approve it without opposition. “Let the truth come out. Allow openness to prevail.”
Next Steps
This legislation next will be sent to Trump for his approval. He stated on the previous day that he would approve the bill.
Though Trump has for an extended period downplayed the controversy over the government’s handling of the scandal as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the legislation over the past few days, and said he would approve it if it is presented to him.
Response
Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their supporters who were seated in a public section, cheered after the bill was enacted. The only opposition came from a Louisiana Republican, who expressed concern he worried the measure would disclose personal information of individuals involved, persons of interest and others caught up in the investigation.
Other News Updates
- The president faces criticism for calling a journalist as ‘piggy’ during a disagreement onboard Air Force One.
- Federal judge rejects ‘racially gerrymandered’ maps in Texas that awarded Republicans additional districts.
- Many of US education agency’s powers reassigned to other branches as part of administration efforts.
- Mass federal immigration sweeps move to North Carolina capital, with authorities noting ongoing activities.
